ELISA: This antibody can be used as a capture antibody in sandwich immunoassay for human AFP detection.

Western blot: The antibody identifies 68kD AFP on western blot.

* The dilutions indicate recommended starting dilutions and the optimal dilutions or concentrations should be determined by the scientist.

Properties

Form

Liquid

Purification

Protein G affinity purified

Buffer

0.01M PBS (pH 7.0)

Storage instruction

For continuous use, store undiluted antibody at 2-8°C for up to a week. For long-term storage, aliquot and store at -20°C or below. Storage in frost free freezers is not recommended. Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles. Suggest spin the vial prior to opening. The antibody solution should be gently mixed before use.

Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) is a 70kD glycoprotein which is produced primarily by liver cells in foetuses. It exists in significant amount in foetal plasma and decreases rapidly after birth. Moderate amount of AFP exists in serum of pregnant women. Monitoring mother’s serum AFP level in second trimester pregnancy can help assessing birth defects such as Down syndrome, neural tube defect and anencephaly. Elevated AFP level in men, children and non-pregnant women is associated with neoplastic conditions in lever, testicle or ovary.

Function

Binds copper, nickel, and fatty acids as well as, and bilirubin less well than, serum albumin. Only a small percentage (less than 2%) of the human AFP shows estrogen-binding properties. [UniProt]